JP2007175431A - Ultrasonograph - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ultrasonograph capable of surely displaying an insertion pathway of a puncture needle. <P>SOLUTION: This ultrasonograph is provided with: an ultrasonic endoscope 1 having an ultrasonic vibrator 16 for three-dimensionally scanning ultrasonic waves in a living body; an ultrasonic image formation section 24 of an ultrasonic observation apparatus 2 creating ultrasonic volume data based on ultrasonic signals acquired by the ultrasonic endoscope 1; a two-dimensional image selection knob 19, a keyboard 4, a track ball 5, an arithmetic and control section 21, and a display control section 25 constituted to select a tomographic plane among the ultrasonic volume data by specifying a rotation angle using a straight line passing through two points specified on the ultrasonic volume data as a rotation axis; and a monitor 3 displaying the tomographic plane selected during the scanning as the two-dimensional ultrasonic image. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that creates an ultrasonic image based on an ultrasonic signal obtained by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves in a living body.

  In recent years, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that transmits ultrasonic waves into a living body, receives reflected waves from living tissue, and observes the state of the living body as an image can be observed in real time in real time. It is popular.

  When observing using such an ultrasound diagnostic device, if a tumor is found, check the ultrasound image to determine whether the found tumor is benign or malignant. In some cases, puncture is performed to collect cells and tissues, and the collected cells and tissues are examined.

  When this puncture needle is used, the puncture needle may protrude obliquely with respect to the ultrasonic scanning surface, or the puncture needle may be curved. Then, it may not be possible to confirm whether or not the tip of the puncture needle has reached the inside of the tumor, and there is a possibility that accurate diagnosis cannot be performed as it is. There was a thing.

  In order to cope with such a point, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-58584 discloses that a position of a puncture needle is detected by a position sensor and ultrasonic waves are three-dimensionally scanned using a two-dimensional array transducer. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus has been proposed in which the position of the puncture needle is estimated from the volume data and the puncture needle is displayed on the ultrasonic image.

  In Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-185041, a Doppler signal is increased from volume data obtained by applying a minute vibration to a puncture needle and using a two-dimensional array transducer to three-dimensionally scan an ultrasonic wave. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that estimates the position of the puncture needle based on the position has been proposed.

Furthermore, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-208859 discloses a volume data obtained by three-dimensionally scanning an ultrasonic wave using a two-dimensional array transducer, based on luminance information based on a reflected wave from a puncture needle. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that displays the amount of deviation from the scanning surface of the puncture needle has been proposed.
Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-58584 JP 2000-185041 A JP 2004-208859 A

  However, although the above Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-58584 describes that a position sensor is attached to a radiofrequency puncture needle or a hollow puncture needle for ethanol injection, the type of position sensor is not shown, and detection is not performed. The positional relationship between the position sensor and the puncture needle when performing is also unclear.

  Further, in the case of the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-185041, since it is necessary to sacrifice the frame rate in order to perform three-dimensional scanning in the Doppler mode, the real-time property during puncture is lowered, and the reality It cannot be said that it is an effective solution. Further, in the technique described in the publication, since the minute vibration must be continuously applied to the puncture needle, the apparatus becomes complicated.

  Furthermore, in the case of the one described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-208859, it is practically difficult to accurately extract only the puncture needle because there are many pixels having similar brightness values in the ultrasonic data. It is. In addition, the technique described in the publication does not display the puncture needle itself, but displays the amount of deviation of the puncture needle from the scanning plane, so that the actual insertion path of the puncture needle can be confirmed. There is also a problem that cannot be done.

  And, since the ultrasonic endoscope used by inserting into the body cavity is more flexible than the extracorporeal ultrasonic probe, and the tip cannot be visually confirmed, It is very difficult to correct the position of the ultrasonic transducer and the direction of the needle tip of the puncture needle.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of reliably displaying an insertion path of a puncture needle.

  In order to achieve the above object, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention is based on an ultrasonic probe for three-dimensionally scanning an ultrasonic wave in a living body and an ultrasonic signal obtained by the ultrasonic probe. Volume data generating means for generating ultrasonic volume data, tomographic plane selecting means for selecting a tomographic plane from the ultrasonic volume data, and a tomographic plane selected by the tomographic plane selecting means during the scanning in two dimensions And a display device for displaying as an ultrasonic image.

  According to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention, it is possible to reliably display the insertion path of the puncture needle.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[Embodiment 1]
1 to 7 show Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and FIG. 2 is an enlarged view showing a configuration of a distal end portion of an ultrasonic endoscope. FIG. 3 is a perspective view, FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the position of a two-dimensional ultrasound image cut out in accordance with the operation of a two-dimensional image selection key, in contrast to the distal end portion of the ultrasound endoscope, and FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the long axis of the puncture needle. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of drawing in a two-dimensional ultrasonic image on the monitor screen, and FIG. 5 shows a state in which the first point is designated by moving the cursor to the root position of the puncture needle on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image on the monitor screen FIG. 6 is a diagram showing how the second point is designated by moving the cursor to the tip position of the puncture needle on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image on the monitor screen, and FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the first and second points. It is a figure which shows a mode that the long axis of a puncture needle is displayed on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image of a monitor screen by designation | designated.

  With reference to FIG. 1, the configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus will be described. In this embodiment, an ultrasonic endoscope having a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged two-dimensionally is used as an ultrasonic probe.

  This ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes an ultrasonic endoscope 1 that is an ultrasonic probe, an ultrasonic observation apparatus 2, a monitor 3, a keyboard 4 that is a tomographic plane selection means and manual selection means, and a tomographic plane selection means. And a trackball 5 as manual selection means.

  The ultrasonic endoscope 1 is an elongated insertion portion 11 that can be inserted into a body cavity of a patient, and an operation that is connected to the rear end side of the insertion portion 11 and is operated by an operator. Part 12.

  The insertion portion 11 includes a hard distal end portion 13 provided at the distal end, a bendable bending portion 14 continuously provided on the rear end side of the distal end portion 13, and the operation portion 12 from the rear end of the bending portion 14. And a long flexible portion 15 reaching the front end.

  The operation unit 12 includes a bending knob 18 and a two-dimensional image selection knob 19. The bending knob 18 is a bending operation member for bending the bending portion 14 in a desired direction by an operator's turning operation. The two-dimensional image selection knob 19 is a tomographic plane selection means and a manual selection means for selecting a two-dimensional ultrasonic image to be displayed on the monitor 3. The two-dimensional image selection knob 19 is configured to be rotated in two directions, clockwise and counterclockwise, by manual operation, and an ultrasonic image selection signal corresponding to the operation is transmitted to the ultrasonic observation apparatus 2. Are output to the calculation / control unit 21 described later.

  The ultrasonic endoscope 1 is provided with a forceps channel 17 as a treatment instrument channel formed so as to form a tunnel structure with a hollow tube along the longitudinal direction from the operation section 12 to the distal end section 13. ing. The forceps channel 17 has a forceps channel port 17 a opened at the distal end portion 13 and a forceps channel port 17 b opened at the operation portion 12. A treatment tool such as a puncture needle can be inserted into the forceps channel 17.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 2, the structure of the front-end | tip part 13 is demonstrated.

  The distal end portion 13 includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 16. More specifically, the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 16 are arranged in a two-dimensional plane composed of a transducer array parallel to the insertion direction and a transducer array perpendicular thereto, and is configured as a two-dimensional array. Yes. A signal line 16 a is connected to each of the ultrasonic transducers 16, and each signal line 16 a is connected to the ultrasonic observation apparatus 2. A pulse-shaped transmission drive signal for driving the ultrasonic transducer 16 and an echo signal from the ultrasonic transducer 16 are transmitted and received through the signal line 16a. At this time, an echo from a three-dimensional space of a specific region is obtained by driving each ultrasonic transducer 16 as will be described later.

  The forceps channel port 17a on the distal end portion 13 side of the forceps channel 17 has a center that makes a predetermined angle with respect to the insertion axis so that the puncture needle 9 (see FIG. 2) as a treatment tool protrudes into the ultrasonic scanning range. It is comprised so that it may become an opening which has an axis | shaft.

  Although illustration is omitted, the distal end portion 13 has an illumination window for irradiating illumination light into the body cavity and an observation window having an optical lens for observing the illuminated subject. Is provided.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 1, the ultrasonic observation apparatus 2 includes an arithmetic / control unit 21 that is a tomographic plane selection unit, an ultrasonic transmission unit 22, an ultrasonic reception unit 23, and an ultrasonic image generation unit that is a volume data generation unit. And a display control unit 25 serving as a tomographic plane selection unit.

  The calculation / control unit 21 is a control unit that controls the operation of each unit in the ultrasonic observation apparatus 2 including the ultrasonic transmission unit 22, the ultrasonic image creation unit 24, and the display control unit 25 described above, and is necessary. It is a calculation means which performs a calculation etc.

  The ultrasonic transmission unit 22 transmits the pulse-shaped transmission drive signal as described above for driving the ultrasonic transducer 16.

  The ultrasonic receiving unit 23 receives the echo signal as described above from the ultrasonic transducer 16.

  The ultrasonic image creation unit 24 creates ultrasonic volume data (hereinafter referred to as 3D data) composed of three-dimensional ultrasonic image data based on the echo signal received by the ultrasonic reception unit 23.

  The display control unit 25 controls to display the 3D data created by the ultrasound image creation unit 24 on the monitor 3 based on the control of the calculation / control unit 21 and cuts out a two-dimensional ultrasound image from the 3D data. Display control means for controlling to display on the monitor 3.

  A keyboard 4 is connected to the ultrasonic observation apparatus 2. The keyboard 4 includes a scan start key 4a, a first point designation key 4b, a second point designation key 4c, a two-dimensional image selection key (+) 4d, and a two-dimensional image selection key (−) 4e. I have.

  The scan start key 4a is for starting ultrasonic scanning by the ultrasonic transducer 16.

  As will be described later, the first point designation key 4b is for designating, for example, the root side of the portion protruding from the forceps channel port 17a of the puncture needle 9 as the first point.

  As will be described later, the second point designation key 4c is for designating, for example, the distal end side of the portion protruding from the forceps channel port 17a of the puncture needle 9 as the second point.

  The two-dimensional image selection key (+) 4d is for selecting a two-dimensional ultrasonic image to be displayed on the monitor 3.

  The two-dimensional image selection key (−) 4e is also for selecting a two-dimensional ultrasonic image to be displayed on the monitor 3, and for specifying the opposite direction to the above-described two-dimensional image selection key (+) 4d. Has become.

  A trackball 5 is further connected to the ultrasonic observation apparatus 2 described above. The trackball 5 is a pointing device for moving a cursor 33 displayed on the monitor screen 3a of the monitor 3 (see FIGS. 5 and 6).

  A monitor 3 is connected to the ultrasonic observation apparatus 2 described above. This monitor 3 is a display means (display device) for displaying the output from the ultrasonic observation apparatus 2.

  Next, the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 will be described.

  In FIG. 1, the broken line indicates the flow of signals and data related to ultrasonic waves, the thick solid line indicates the flow of signals and data related to the final display image, and the solid line indicates the flow of signals and data related to control. Yes.

  First, the outline of the operation of the entire ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is as follows.

  When the scanning start key 4a of the keyboard 4 is pressed, a transmission drive signal in the form of a pulse voltage is transmitted from the ultrasonic transmission unit 22 based on the control of the calculation / control unit 21 in the ultrasonic observation apparatus 2. 1 is transmitted to the ultrasonic transducer 16 at the distal end portion 13. At this time, the calculation / control unit 21 delays each excitation signal (each transmission drive signal) so that the time at which each transmission drive signal arrives at each ultrasonic transducer 16 is different.

  Among the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 16 constituting the ultrasonic transducer array, a part of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 16 receives the excitation signal in the form of a pulse voltage from the ultrasonic transmission unit 22, and Converts to ultrasonic waves that are dense waves. At this time, the ultrasonic waves excited by the ultrasonic transducers 16 form a single ultrasonic beam when superimposed in the subject (the calculation is performed so as to form this single ultrasonic beam). The control unit 21 applies the above delay to each transmission drive signal). The ultrasonic beam thus generated is irradiated to the outside of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 and scans the inside of the subject in a three-dimensional manner. The reflected wave from within the subject returns to each ultrasonic transducer 16 along a path opposite to the ultrasonic beam. Each ultrasonic transducer 16 converts the reflected wave into an electrical echo signal and transmits it to the ultrasonic receiving unit 23 in the ultrasonic observation device 2 through a path opposite to the excitation signal.

  The ultrasonic receiver 23 amplifies the received echo signal and transmits it to the ultrasonic image generator 24.

  The ultrasonic image creation unit 24 performs phasing addition of the amplified echo signals based on the control of the calculation / control unit 21 to create the 3D data described above.

  Based on the control of the calculation / control unit 21, the display control unit 25 cuts out a two-dimensional ultrasonic image from the 3D data created by the ultrasonic image creation unit 24 and outputs it to the monitor 3.

  That is, the operator operates the two-dimensional image selection knob 19 provided on the operation unit 12 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1, the two-dimensional image selection keys 4 d and 4 e installed on the keyboard 4, or the trackball 5. Then, the calculation / control unit 21 in the ultrasonic observation apparatus 2 controls the display control unit 25 to designate a surface to be cut out as a two-dimensional ultrasonic image from the 3D data. Therefore, the display control unit 25 cuts out the surface specified by the calculation / control unit 21 from the 3D data, creates a two-dimensional ultrasonic image, and outputs it to the monitor 3. Thereby, the surgeon can display a tomographic plane on which the puncture needle 9 is depicted, and can accurately perform puncture while observing an image of the puncture needle 9.

  Next, a method for specifying a surface to be cut out as a two-dimensional ultrasonic image will be described.

  In the initial state, the calculation / control unit 21 displays the tomographic plane of the puncture needle 9 and is perpendicular to the transducer array plane when the puncture needle 9 projects straight from the forceps channel port 17a to the exit direction without bending. The display control unit 25 is controlled so as to cut out a two-dimensional ultrasonic image position (hereinafter referred to as an initial two-dimensional image position).

  Thereafter, when the two-dimensional image selection knob 19 provided on the operation unit 12 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 is rotated clockwise, or the two-dimensional image selection key (+) 4d installed on the keyboard 4 is pressed. In this case, the calculation / control unit 21 uses the center line of the insertion axis as the rotation axis, and sets the initial two-dimensional image position to the + direction in FIG. The display control unit 25 is controlled so as to cut out the position of the two-dimensional ultrasound image rotated clockwise (when viewed from the root side in the clockwise direction).

  On the other hand, when the two-dimensional image selection knob 19 provided in the operation unit 12 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 is rotated counterclockwise, or the two-dimensional image selection key (−) 4 e installed on the keyboard 4 is pressed. When pressed, the calculation / control unit 21 uses the center line of the insertion axis as the rotation axis, and sets the initial two-dimensional image position to the − direction (the tip along the insertion axis) in FIG. The display control unit 25 is controlled so as to cut out the position of the two-dimensional ultrasonic image rotated counterclockwise when the root side is viewed from the side.

  In addition, during the execution of the above-described processing, it is possible to perform the following processing for displaying an arbitrary tomographic plane as a two-dimensional ultrasonic image.

  First, as shown in FIG. 5 or 6, the monitor screen 3 a of the monitor 3 can display the 3D data 31 and the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 side by side. Furthermore, a cursor 33 as a pointer can be displayed on the monitor screen 3a.

  In such a configuration, the operator operates the trackball 5 at a desired time to display the cursor 33 on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 on the monitor screen 3a, and the first point designation key 4b on the keyboard 4 is displayed. Is pressed. Then, the calculation / control unit 21 displays, for example, a red point at the position designated by the cursor 33 on the two-dimensional ultrasound image 32 and similarly displays a red point at the corresponding position on the 3D data 31. The display control unit 25 is controlled as described above. If the second point described later has already been specified at this time, the calculation / control unit 21 sets two planes that pass through the first point and the second point and are perpendicular to the transducer surface. The display control unit 25 is controlled so as to be cut out as the dimensional ultrasonic image 32.

  In the state where the first point is designated, the surgeon operates the trackball 5 to move the cursor 33 to a position outside the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 on the monitor screen 3a. It is assumed that the first point designation key 4b 4 is pressed. Then, the calculation / control unit 21 cancels the designation of the first point and returns to the state where the red dots displayed on the two-dimensional ultrasound image 32 and the 3D data 31 are not displayed. The display control unit 25 is controlled.

  Similarly, during the execution of the processing as described above, the surgeon operates the trackball 5 to display the cursor 33 on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 on the monitor screen 3a. It is assumed that the second point designation key 4c is pressed. Then, for example, a green dot is displayed at the position designated by the cursor 33 on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32, and the green dot is similarly displayed at the corresponding position on the 3D data 31. Thus, the display control unit 25 is controlled. If the first point described above has already been specified at this time, the calculation / control unit 21 passes the first point and the second point and sets a plane that is perpendicular to the transducer surface to more than two dimensions. The display control unit 25 is controlled so as to be cut out as the sound wave image 32.

  In the state where the second point is designated, the operator operates the trackball 5 to move the cursor 33 to a position outside the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 on the monitor screen 3a, and further, the keyboard. It is assumed that the second point designation key 4c is pressed. Then, the calculation / control unit 21 cancels the designation of the second point and returns to the state where the green dots displayed on the two-dimensional ultrasound image 32 and the 3D data 31 are not displayed. The display control unit 25 is controlled.

  In this way, the two-dimensional image selection knob 19 provided on the operation unit 12 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 is rotated while the two points (that is, the first point and the second point) are designated. If the two-dimensional image selection keys 4d and 4e installed on the keyboard 4 are pressed, the calculation / control unit 21 uses the straight lines passing through the first point and the second point as rotation axes to adjust the operation amount. The display control unit 25 is controlled so as to cut out the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 rotated by the corresponding angle.

  As an example of the action of cutting out and displaying such a two-dimensional ultrasound image, a case where the long axis of the puncture needle 9 is depicted in the two-dimensional ultrasound image 32 of the monitor screen 3a as shown in FIG. This will be described in more detail.

  First, when the operator presses the scan start key 4a of the keyboard 4, 3D (three-dimensional) scanning is started, and an image of 3D data 31 and a two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 are displayed on the monitor screen 3a. The At this time, the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 displays an image at the initial two-dimensional image position as described above.

  Next, the surgeon moves the distal end portion 13 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 to the vicinity of the site to be punctured, and then inserts the puncture needle 9 into the forceps channel 17 and inserts the puncture needle 9 into the forceps at the distal end portion 13. It protrudes slightly from the channel port 17a.

  Subsequently, the operator operates the two-dimensional image selection knob 19 provided on the operation unit 12 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 or the two-dimensional image selection keys 4d and 4e installed on the keyboard 4 to perform FIG. The two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 in which the long axis of the puncture needle 9 is displayed as shown in FIG.

  Here, if the protruding direction of the puncture needle 9 and the insertion axis direction of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 are twisted, the long axis of the puncture needle 9 is good on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32. Is not displayed.

  At this time, an operation for designating an arbitrary tomographic plane as the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 is performed.

  That is, first, the root part 9a of the puncture needle 9 is displayed on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 by operating the two-dimensional image selection knob 19 or the two-dimensional image selection keys 4d and 4e.

  Next, by operating the trackball 5, as shown in FIG. 5, the cursor 33 is displayed at the position of the root portion 9a of the puncture needle 9 on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 on the monitor screen 3a. Press the first point designation key 4b.

  Subsequently, the two-dimensional image selection knob 19 or the two-dimensional image selection keys 4d and 4e are operated to display the distal end portion 9b of the puncture needle 9 on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 as shown in FIG.

  Then, by operating the trackball 5, as shown in FIG. 6, the cursor 33 is displayed at the position of the distal end portion 9b of the puncture needle 9 on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 on the monitor screen 3a. The point designation key 4c is pressed.

  By performing such an operation, the long axis of the puncture needle 9 is displayed on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 as shown in FIG.

  Here, when it is desired to confirm the positional relationship with the surrounding organs or when the puncture needle 9 is curved, the first point is operated by operating the two-dimensional image selection knob 19 or the two-dimensional image selection keys 4d and 4e. It can be confirmed by rotating the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 around the straight line passing through the second point and displaying the curved state of the surrounding organ and the puncture needle 9 on the monitor 3.

  Thereafter, while confirming the puncture needle 9 on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32, the puncture is further performed to the lesioned part. When the position of the distal end portion 13 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 is moved or the direction of the puncture needle 9 is changed during the puncture, the two points are again set as described above. You may make it change the tomographic plane to display by designating (1st point and 2nd point) and adjusting a rotation angle. Further, the trackball 5 is operated to move the cursor 33 to a position outside the two-dimensional ultrasound image 32 on the monitor screen 3a, and further, the first point designation key 4b or the second point designation key 4c of the keyboard 4 is used. By pressing, the display of any tomographic plane can be canceled. Thereafter, for example, the two-dimensional image selection knob 19 may be rotated, and the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 on which the distal end portion 9b of the puncture needle 9 is displayed may be checked while being sequentially selected.

  In addition, when the puncture needle 9 is curved, by designating two points near the tip of the puncture needle 9, it is possible to display a route predicted that the tip of the puncture needle 9 will head in the future.

  Further, the two-dimensional image selection knob 19 is rotated to sequentially select the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 on which the tip of the puncture needle 9 is displayed, so that the tip 13 is displayed as an actual ultrasonic tomographic image. You can always check.

  According to the first embodiment, not only when the puncture needle 9 protrudes straight from the forceps channel port 17a, but also when the puncture needle 9 protrudes obliquely from the forceps channel port 17a, or when the puncture needle 9 itself is Even when it is curved, the tip of the puncture needle 9 can be reliably confirmed on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32. For this reason, it can be confirmed that the tip of the puncture needle 9 has reached the inside of the tumor, and the accuracy of the diagnosis is improved. Further, even if the puncture needle 9 is curved, the operation can be continued, and it is not necessary to replace the curved puncture needle 9 and perform puncture again, thereby reducing the examination time while improving the economy. It becomes possible to plan.

  In addition, unlike the external probe, the ultrasonic endoscope 1 is normally held with both hands, so that the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 displayed on the monitor 3 is selected on the operation unit 12. Since the selection knob 19 can be used, the burden on the operator can be reduced. Further, at the time of puncturing, the operation unit 12 is operated with one hand and the puncture needle 9 is operated with the other hand, but the operation unit 12 is provided with a two-dimensional image selection knob 19 so that there is no assistant. The two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 of the tip of the puncture needle 9 can be displayed, and the operability at the time of puncture is improved.

  Since the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 to be displayed can be manually selected, a desired image can be displayed more reliably than the means for automatically displaying. Further, by displaying a two-dimensional ultrasonic image other than the plane on which the puncture needle is present, it is possible to check the peripheral organs of the puncture needle. In this case, there is a further advantage that the configuration of the apparatus can be simplified and reduced in size.

  Moreover, the technique of this embodiment displays the echo from the puncture needle 9 reflected in the actual ultrasonic image. Therefore, the technique of the present embodiment is more effective than the conventional technique in which the position of the puncture needle 9 estimated based on data obtained from a sensor or the like is displayed superimposed on an ultrasonic tomographic image. The positional relationship is accurate, and there is an advantage that the affected part can be reliably punctured and the cells and tissues of the affected part can be reliably collected.

<Modification>
In the above description, the ultrasonic endoscope 1 having a two-dimensional array in which a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 16 are arranged in a two-dimensional plane is used as the ultrasonic probe. However, the present invention is not limited to this. . For example, an ultrasonic probe having a two-dimensional array in which a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 16 are two-dimensionally arranged in a curved surface may be used. Specifically, an example in which a two-dimensional array having a configuration in which a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 16 are arranged along the outer periphery of the cylindrical tip portion 13 is given. An ultrasonic probe of a type that scans three-dimensionally by mechanically moving a transducer array that is one-dimensionally arranged may be used. Further, the ultrasonic probe is not limited to an ultrasonic endoscope.

  Further, in the above description, the keyboard 4 and the trackball 5 are used as means for controlling the ultrasound observation apparatus 2 from the outside. Of course, these are merely examples, and for example, on the screen using a mouse or a joystick. A means for selecting a menu may be used.

  In the above description, when the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 is selected, the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 rotated about the center line of the insertion axis by an angle corresponding to the operation amount is displayed. However, it is not limited to this. The two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 is displayed by rotating the initial two-dimensional image position around a straight line passing through the center of the forceps channel port 17a provided at the distal end portion 13 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1. May be. By adopting such a configuration, the forceps channel port 17a to which the position of the puncture needle 9 is fixed always exists on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32, so that the long axis of the puncture needle 9 is depicted. There is an advantage that the selected two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 can be selected more easily.

  In addition, in the above description, the means for selecting the two-dimensional ultrasound image 32 includes two means for displaying the two-dimensional ultrasound image 32 while rotating around the center line of the insertion axis by an angle corresponding to the operation amount. And a means for displaying an arbitrary two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 by designating the rotation angle. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and the following means may be employed.

  One example thereof is means for selecting and displaying an arbitrary two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 including the designated three points by designating three points.

  In the following example, the initial two-dimensional image position is rotated around three orthogonal straight lines passing through the center position of the opening of the forceps channel port 17a of the distal end portion 13 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1, It is a means to display. That is, an orthogonal coordinate system having the origin at the center position of the opening of the forceps channel port 17a is set, and an initial two-dimensional image can be rotated and displayed around each coordinate axis. ing. If this means is adopted, the major axis of the puncture needle 9 can be displayed on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 only by designating three rotation angles regardless of the direction in which the puncture needle 9 protrudes. Will be. At this time, if three devices for inputting a rotation angle such as a knob or a button are installed in the operation unit 12 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1, the long axis of the puncture needle 9 is more than two-dimensional only by hand operation. A new effect of being easily displayed on the sound wave image 32 can be achieved.

[Embodiment 2]
8 and 9 show Embodiment 2 of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and FIG. 9 is a diagram of a puncture needle and a stylet provided with a first transmission coil. It is a figure which expands and shows a front-end | tip part.

  In the second embodiment, parts that are the same as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted, and only differences are mainly described.

  This embodiment is different from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of Embodiment 1 shown in FIG. 1 in the following points.

  First, with reference to FIG. 9, the front-end | tip part of the puncture needle 9 and the stylet 44 is demonstrated.

  The puncture needle 9 is a treatment instrument that can be inserted into a living body, and has a hollow inside, and has a structure capable of sucking cells and injecting ethanol and the like.

  In the hollow portion of the puncture needle 9, a stylet 44 as a treatment tool configured as a needle having a sharp tip is inserted. A first transmission coil 41 serving as a magnetic sensor, which is a position detection unit configured so that the winding axis direction coincides with the axial direction of the stylet 44, is built in the distal end portion of the stylet 44. As shown in FIG. 8, the first transmission coil 41 is connected to a position / orientation detection device 7 described later via a signal line.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of this embodiment includes a foot switch 6 that is a tomographic plane selection means and a manual selection means, a position and orientation detection device 7, and a receiving coil 8 that is a position detection means and is a magnetic sensor. The configuration of the keyboard 4A as the tomographic plane selection means and manual selection means is slightly different from the keyboard 4 of the first embodiment.

  The distal end portion 13 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 incorporates a second transmission coil 42 and a third transmission coil 43 that are position detection means and are magnetic sensors. Among these, the second transmission coil 42 is disposed such that the winding axis direction coincides with the insertion axis direction of the ultrasonic endoscope 1, and the plane of the ultrasonic transducer 16 configured as a two-dimensional array. This also coincides with the longitudinal direction. The third transmission coil 43 is arranged so that the winding axis direction is orthogonal to the winding axis direction of the second transmission coil 42 and is perpendicular to the plane of the ultrasonic transducer 16 configured as a two-dimensional array. ing. The second transmission coil 42 and the third transmission coil 43 are connected to the position / orientation detection device 7 via signal lines, respectively.

  As described above, the position / orientation detection device 7 is connected to each of the first to third transmission coils 41 to 43 and outputs a coil excitation signal to each of the first to third transmission coils 41 to 43. This is the position detection means made in the above. The position / orientation detection device 7 is further connected to a plurality of receiving coils 8, and the plurality of receiving coils 8 are fixed in space with different winding axes. The position / orientation detection device 7 receives a current generated from the receiving coil 8 in response to a change in the magnetic field, calculates position / orientation data, and transmits it to the calculation / control unit 21 of the ultrasonic observation apparatus. It has become.

  In addition, the foot switch 6 includes a + key 6a and a − key 6b which are buttons that are operated with a foot or the like. The foot switch 6 is connected to the calculation / control unit 21 of the ultrasound observation apparatus 2.

  Then, the keyboard 4 includes the scan start key 4a, the first point designation key 4b, the second point designation key 4c, the two-dimensional image selection key (+) 4d, and the two-dimensional image selection key (−) 4e as described above. And an automatic detection key 4f.

  Other configurations of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus are substantially the same as those of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment described above.

  Next, the operation of such an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus will be described.

  Compared with the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the first embodiment described above, the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present embodiment is the operation of the stylet 44, the operation of the position and orientation detection device 7, and the 3D of the calculation / control unit 21. The operation of designating the surface to be cut out from the data 31 as the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 and the operation of the foot switch 6 are different. Hereinafter, only different points will be mainly described.

  In FIG. 8, the thick broken line shows the signal / data flow related to the position, the broken line shows the signal / data flow related to the ultrasonic wave, and the thick solid line shows the signal / data flow related to the final display image, A solid line indicates a flow of signals and data related to control.

  First, puncture and suction are performed as follows. That is, with the stylet 44 protruding from the puncture needle 9, the puncture needle 9 and the stylet 44 are integrally punctured to the affected area. While the puncture is being performed, the stylet 44 is inserted into the hollow portion of the puncture needle 9, so that the tissue on the puncture route to the affected area is prevented from entering the puncture needle 9. Thereafter, the stylet 44 is removed from the puncture needle 9, and suction of cells or the like or injection of ethanol or the like is performed.

  Next, the operation of the position / orientation detection device 7 using the transmission / reception coil is as follows.

  The position / orientation detection device 7 includes a first transmission coil 41 provided inside the stylet 44, a second transmission coil 42 provided at the distal end portion 13 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1, and a distal end portion 13. The transmitted third transmission coil 43 is excited at different frequencies.

  The reception coil 8 detects the alternating magnetic field from the first to third transmission coils 41 to 43, converts the detected magnetic field into a position electric signal, and outputs the position electric signal to the position and direction detection device 7.

  The position / orientation detection device 7 separates the position electrical signal obtained by detecting the magnetic field of the transmission coil by decomposing the position electrical signal input from the receiving coil 8 for each frequency. Then, the position / orientation detection device 7 calculates the position / orientation data of the transmission coil based on the separated position electric signals, and outputs the calculated position / orientation data to the calculation / control unit 21 of the ultrasonic observation apparatus 2. To do.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the origin O is defined on the receiving coil 8, and the orthogonal coordinate axis O-xyz and its normal orthogonal base (in each axial direction) are set on the actual space in which the operator examines the subject. Unit vectors i, j, and k (instead of expressing vectors using bold characters, normal characters are used; the same applies hereinafter) are also fixed.

At this time, the position / orientation detection device 7 calculates the position / orientation data of each of the transmission coils 41 to 43 as a function of time t based on the position electric signal as follows, Output to the control unit 21.
Each direction component of the position vector OC ₁ (t) of the position C ₁ (t) of the first transmission coil 41 with respect to the orthogonal coordinate axis O-xyz Unit direction vector V ₁ (t indicating the axial direction of the winding of the first transmission coil 41 ) Of each direction component with respect to the orthogonal coordinate axis O-xyz. Each direction component with respect to the orthogonal coordinate axis O-xyz of the position vector OC ₂ (t) of the position C ₂ (t) of the second transmission coil 42 of the winding of the second transmission coil 42 Each direction component of the unit direction vector V ₂ (t) indicating the axial direction with respect to the orthogonal coordinate axis O-xyz Each of the position vectors OC ₃ (t) of the position C ₃ (t) of the third transmitting coil 43 with respect to the orthogonal coordinate axis O-xyz Direction component Each direction component with respect to the orthogonal coordinate axis O-xyz of the unit direction vector V ₃ (t) indicating the axial direction of the winding of the third transmission coil 43

  Here, when the automatic detection key 4f of the keyboard 4A is pressed, the calculation / control unit 21 performs the following operation different from that of the first embodiment.

First, in the present embodiment, the origin O ′ is defined as the center position of the two-dimensional array composed of the ultrasonic transducers 16, and the orthogonal coordinate axis O′− is placed on the actual space where the operator examines the subject. x′y′z ′ and its orthonormal basis (unit vector in each axial direction) i ′, j ′, k ′ are fixed as shown in the following Equation 1.
[Equation 1]
i ′ = V ₂ (t)
j ′ = V ₃ (t)
k ′ = V ₂ (t) × V ₃ (t)
Here, the symbol “x” on the right side of the expression indicating k ′ represents an outer product.

At this time, the position of the origin O ′ is C ₂ (t) and C ₃ (t) output from the position / orientation detection device 7 and the tip portion 13 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 determined by design. The calculation can be made based on the two-dimensional array of the ultrasonic transducers 16 and the relative positions of the second and third transmission coils 42 and 43.

Next, C ₁ (t) and V ₁ (t) output from the position / orientation detection device 7 are converted to C ₁ ′ (t) and V ₁ ′ (values in O′-x′y′z ′ coordinates). Each coordinate is converted to t).

Subsequently, the calculation / control unit 21 includes C ₁ ′ (t) and V ₁ ′ (t), and performs display control so as to cut out the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 perpendicular to the transducer surface from the 3D data 31. The unit 25 is controlled.

  The calculation / control unit 21 repeats such a series of operations every time position / orientation data is input from the position / orientation detection device 7.

  When the automatic detection key 4f of the keyboard 4A is pressed again, the display control unit 25 is controlled so that the position of the two-dimensional ultrasound image 32 cut out from the 3D data 31 is fixed to the position at the time of pressing. To do. Then, using this position as the initial two-dimensional image position, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus performs the same operation as in the first embodiment.

  The + key 6a of the foot switch 6 is for performing the same operation as the two-dimensional image selection key (+) 4d of the keyboard 4A, and the-key 6b of the foot switch 6 is a two-dimensional image selection key of the keyboard 4A. (−) For performing the same operation as 4e.

  Other operations in the present embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  According to the second embodiment, the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 in which the long axis of the puncture needle 9 is depicted can be always displayed automatically while exhibiting substantially the same effect as the first embodiment described above. Therefore, it is not necessary to align the position manually, so that the burden on the operator can be reduced and the examination time can be shortened.

  Further, since the transmission coil is provided in the stylet 44, even when the hollow puncture needle 9 is used, the position sensor can be incorporated without hindering the puncture operation.

  Furthermore, since the position can be changed manually after displaying the two-dimensional ultrasound image 32 in which the long axis of the puncture needle 9 is automatically drawn, after the stylet 44 is removed from the puncture needle 9 Even when the puncture needle 9 is moved in the lesion to improve the collection rate of cells and tissues, it is possible to finely adjust the puncture needle 9 to be reliably depicted. Further, even when the sensor accuracy is deteriorated because the surrounding magnetic field environment is not good, fine adjustment can be performed and the puncture needle 9 can be reliably depicted.

  Further, since the foot switch 6 is provided as means for selecting the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32, an operation with a foot is also possible. At this time, the two-dimensional image selection knob 19 can be omitted from the operation unit 12, and the weight of the operation unit 12 of the ultrasonic probe can be reduced without impairing the effect that the operation can be performed even when both hands are occupied. Can do.

<Modification>
In the above description, the transmission coils 41 to 43 for exciting the alternating magnetic field are provided at the distal end portion 13 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 and the distal end portion of the stylet 44, and the alternating magnetic field is detected to generate a position electric signal. The receiving coil 8 to be output is disposed at a predetermined position outside the ultrasonic endoscope 1. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the transmission coils 41 to 43 are disposed at predetermined positions outside the ultrasonic endoscope 1, and the reception coil 8 is disposed at the distal end 13 of the ultrasonic endoscope 1 and the distal end of the stylet 44. You may make it provide in. Even with such a configuration, the position / orientation detection device 7 can similarly calculate and output the position / orientation data of the transmission coil based on the position electrical signal output by the reception coil 8.

  Further, in the above description, one coil is provided in the stylet 44. However, for example, a configuration in which two coils are provided, including the position of each coil, is parallel to the axial vector of the winding of one of the coils. The two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 may be cut out from the 3D data 31. Thereby, even if the puncture needle 9 is bent, it is possible to display the two-dimensional ultrasonic image 32 in which the long axis of the puncture needle 9 is depicted.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, other than that, the same modification example as in the first embodiment described above can be applied.

  It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and applications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[Appendix]
According to the above-described embodiment of the present invention described in detail above, the following configuration can be obtained.

[Appendix 1]
An ultrasound probe for three-dimensionally scanning ultrasound in a living body;
Volume data creating means for creating ultrasonic volume data based on an ultrasonic signal obtained by the ultrasonic probe;
A tomographic plane selecting means for selecting a tomographic plane from the ultrasonic volume data;
A display device for displaying the tomographic plane selected by the tomographic plane selection means during the scanning as a two-dimensional ultrasound image;
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:

  According to the invention of Supplementary Note 1, it is possible to select a tomographic plane from ultrasonic volume data during scanning and display the selected tomographic plane as a two-dimensional ultrasonic image. Therefore, for example, even when the puncture needle protrudes obliquely or the puncture needle is curved, the tip of the puncture needle can be reliably confirmed by the two-dimensional ultrasonic image. Thereby, since it can be confirmed that the tip of the puncture needle has reached the inside of the tumor, the accuracy of diagnosis is improved. Further, since it is no longer necessary to replace the curved puncture needle and perform puncture again, the economy is improved.

[Appendix 2]
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to appendix 1, wherein the tomographic plane selecting means includes manual selecting means for performing manual selection of a tomographic plane.

  According to the second aspect of the invention, since manual selection of the tomographic plane can be performed, it is possible to reliably select a desired tomographic plane as compared with means for automatically selecting using a sensor or the like. It is also possible to simplify and simplify the configuration of the apparatus. And it becomes possible to display reliably from the angle which an operator wants to display.

[Appendix 3]
The ultrasonic probe is configured to have an operation unit for performing an operation by hand,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to appendix 2, wherein the manual selection unit is disposed in an operation unit of the ultrasonic probe.

  According to the third aspect of the invention, since it is possible to manually input a tomographic plane in the operation unit, the ultrasonic probe is of a type that is normally held with both hands (for example, an ultrasonic endoscope). In this case, the two-dimensional ultrasound image displayed on the display device can be selected while holding the ultrasound probe with both hands, and the burden on the operator is reduced. Furthermore, for example, when performing puncturing with a puncture needle, it is conceivable to operate the operation unit with one hand and the puncture needle with the other hand, but even at this time, an assistant is required. In addition, it is possible to display a two-dimensional ultrasonic image in which the puncture needle is depicted.

[Appendix 4]
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to appendix 2, wherein the manual selection means includes a foot switch for performing selection input by a foot.

  According to the fourth aspect of the invention, since it is possible to select and input a tomographic plane with a foot, when the ultrasonic probe is of a type that is normally grasped with both hands (for example, an ultrasonic endoscope) ), It is possible to select a two-dimensional ultrasonic image displayed on the display device while holding the ultrasonic probe with both hands, thereby reducing the burden on the operator. Furthermore, for example, when performing puncturing with a puncture needle, it is conceivable to operate the operation unit with one hand and the puncture needle with the other hand, but even at this time, an assistant is required. In addition, it is possible to display a two-dimensional ultrasonic image in which the puncture needle is depicted.

[Appendix 5]
The tomographic plane selection means designates a tomographic plane from the ultrasonic volume data by designating a rotation angle around the rotational axis with a straight line passing through two points designated on the ultrasonic volume data as a rotational axis. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of supplementary notes 1 to 4, wherein the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is configured to be selected.

  According to the invention of appendix 5, for example, when using a puncture needle, by setting two designated points on the puncture needle, a two-dimensional ultrasound image in which the long axis of the puncture needle is depicted is easily displayed. This makes it possible to shorten the inspection time.

[Appendix 6]
The ultrasonic probe is configured to have a treatment instrument channel through which a treatment instrument can be inserted,
A treatment instrument inserted into the treatment instrument channel;
Position detecting means for detecting the position of the ultrasonic probe and the position of the treatment instrument;
Further comprising
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to appendix 1, wherein the tomographic plane selecting unit selects the tomographic plane based on position information detected by the position detecting unit.

  According to the sixth aspect of the invention, the tomographic plane selecting unit automatically selects a two-dimensional ultrasonic image in which the long axis of the treatment tool is drawn in order to select the tomographic plane based on the position information detected by the position detecting unit. Therefore, it is possible to always display. Therefore, it is not necessary to align the position manually, so that the burden on the operator can be reduced and the examination time can be shortened.

[Appendix 7]
The position detecting means includes a magnetic sensor;
The treatment instrument includes a puncture needle that can be inserted into a living body and has a hollow portion, and a stylet configured to be inserted through the hollow portion of the puncture needle. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to appendix 6, wherein the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is provided on each of the ultrasonic probe and the stylet.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, since the magnetic sensor is disposed on the stylet, the long axis of the puncture needle can be used even when a puncture needle having a hollow portion in which the magnetic sensor is difficult to be disposed is used. It is possible to automatically always display the two-dimensional ultrasonic image drawn.

[Appendix 8]
The tomographic plane selecting means selects the tomographic plane based on the position information detected by the position detecting means, and further includes a manual selecting means for performing manual selection of the tomographic plane. 8. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to appendix 6 or appendix 7, wherein

  According to the invention of Supplementary Note 8, since it is possible to automatically select a tomographic plane based on position information, and also to select a tomographic plane manually, for example, a stylet is inserted into a puncture needle. Even when the puncture needle is moved in the lesioned part in order to improve the collection rate of cells and tissues after being removed from the cell, fine adjustment can be performed and the puncture needle can be reliably depicted. Further, even when the sensor accuracy is lowered because the surrounding magnetic field environment is not good, it is possible to finely adjust the puncture needle to be surely depicted.

[Appendix 9]
The ultrasonic wave according to any one of supplementary notes 1 to 8, wherein the ultrasonic probe has a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged two-dimensionally. Diagnostic device.

  According to the invention of appendix 9, in an ultrasonic probe having a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged two-dimensionally, a tomographic plane is selected from ultrasonic volume data during scanning, and the selected tomographic plane is selected. Can be displayed as a two-dimensional ultrasonic image.

[Appendix 10]
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to appendix 1, wherein the ultrasonic probe is an ultrasonic probe that can be used by being inserted into a body cavity.

  According to the invention of Supplementary Note 10, in an ultrasonic probe that can be used by being inserted into a body cavity, a tomographic plane is selected from ultrasonic volume data during scanning, and the selected tomographic plane is converted into a two-dimensional ultrasonic image. It is possible to display.

[Appendix 11]
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 5, wherein the ultrasonic probe has a treatment instrument channel through which a treatment instrument can be inserted.

  According to the invention of Supplementary Note 11, in an ultrasonic probe having a treatment instrument channel through which a treatment instrument can be inserted, a tomographic plane is selected from ultrasonic volume data during scanning, and the selected tomographic plane is converted into a two-dimensional ultrasonic wave. It can be displayed as an image.

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention can be suitably used for an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that creates an ultrasonic image based on an ultrasonic signal obtained by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves into a living body.

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The perspective view which expands and shows the structure of the front-end | tip part of the ultrasonic endoscope in the said Embodiment 1. FIG. The figure which shows the position of the two-dimensional ultrasonic image cut out according to operation of the two-dimensional image selection key in the said Embodiment 1 with the front-end | tip part of an ultrasonic endoscope. The figure which shows the example when the major axis of a puncture needle is drawn in the two-dimensional ultrasonic image of a monitor screen in the said Embodiment 1. FIG. In the said Embodiment 1, the figure which shows a mode that a cursor is moved to the base position of the puncture needle on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image of a monitor screen, and the 1st point is designated. In the said Embodiment 1, the figure which shows a mode that a cursor is moved to the front-end | tip position of the puncture needle on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image of a monitor screen, and the 2nd point is designated. In the said Embodiment 1, the figure which shows a mode that the long axis of a puncture needle is displayed on the two-dimensional ultrasonic image of a monitor screen by designation | designated of the 1st point and the 2nd point. The figure which shows the structure of the ultrasonic diagnosing device in Embodiment 2 of this invention. In the said Embodiment 2, the figure which expands and shows the front-end | tip part of the puncture needle and the stylet provided with the 1st transmission coil.

Explanation of symbols

1 ... Ultrasound endoscope (ultrasonic probe)
2 ... Ultrasonic observation device 3 ... Monitor (display device)
3a ... monitor screen 4, 4A ... keyboard (tomographic plane selection means, manual selection means)
4a: Scan start key 4b: First point designation key 4c: Second point designation key 4d: Two-dimensional image selection key (+)
4e 2D image selection key (-)
4f ... Automatic detection key 5 ... Trackball (tomographic plane selection means, manual selection means)
6. Foot switch (fault plane selection means, manual selection means)
6a ... + key 6b ...- key 7 ... Position and direction detection device (position detection means)
8 ... Receiving coil (position detecting means, magnetic sensor)
9 ... Puncture needle (treatment instrument)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 ... Insertion part 12 ... Operation part 13 ... Tip part 14 ... Bending part 15 ... Flexible part 16 ... Ultrasonic transducer 17 ... Forceps channel (treatment tool channel)
17a, 17b ... forceps channel port 18 ... bending knob 19 ... two-dimensional image selection knob (tomographic plane selection means, manual selection means)
21 ... Calculation / control section (fault plane selection means)
22 ... Ultrasonic transmitter 23 ... Ultrasonic receiver 24 ... Ultrasonic image generator (volume data generator)
25. Display control unit (tomographic plane selection means)
31 ... 3D data 32 ... 2D ultrasonic image 33 ... Cursor 41 ... 1st transmission coil (position detection means, magnetic sensor)
42 ... 2nd transmission coil (position detection means, magnetic sensor)
43. Third transmitting coil (position detecting means, magnetic sensor)
44 ... Stylet (treatment tool)

Claims (11)

An ultrasound probe for three-dimensionally scanning ultrasound in a living body;
Volume data creating means for creating ultrasonic volume data based on an ultrasonic signal obtained by the ultrasonic probe;
A tomographic plane selecting means for selecting a tomographic plane from the ultrasonic volume data;
A display device for displaying the tomographic plane selected by the tomographic plane selection means during the scanning as a two-dimensional ultrasound image;
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the tomographic plane selecting unit includes a manual selecting unit for manually inputting a tomographic plane selection input. The ultrasonic probe is configured to have an operation unit for performing an operation by hand,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the manual selection unit is disposed in an operation unit of the ultrasonic probe.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the manual selection means includes a foot switch for performing selection input by a foot.   The tomographic plane selecting means designates a rotation plane around the rotation axis by using a straight line passing through the two points specified on the ultrasonic volume data as a rotation axis, thereby selecting a tomographic plane from the ultrasonic volume data. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is configured to be selected. The ultrasonic probe is configured to have a treatment instrument channel through which a treatment instrument can be inserted,
A treatment instrument inserted into the treatment instrument channel;
Position detecting means for detecting the position of the ultrasonic probe and the position of the treatment instrument;
Further comprising
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the tomographic plane selecting unit is configured to select the tomographic plane based on position information detected by the position detecting unit. The position detecting means includes a magnetic sensor;
The treatment instrument includes a puncture needle that can be inserted into a living body and has a hollow portion, and a stylet configured to be inserted through the hollow portion of the puncture needle. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is disposed on each of the ultrasonic probe and the stylet.   The tomographic plane selection means selects the tomographic plane based on the position information detected by the position detection means, and further includes manual selection means for performing manual selection of the tomographic plane. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, wherein   9. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged two-dimensionally. 10. Ultrasound diagnostic device.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic probe is an ultrasonic probe that can be used by being inserted into a body cavity.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the ultrasonic probe is configured to include a treatment instrument channel through which a treatment instrument can be inserted.

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